Tag Archives: Apart from the Crowd Series

Miss Gertrude Cadwalader may be simply a paid companion, but working for the eccentric Mrs. Davenport is never dull. From wearing odd costumes that her employer creates to returning random stolen goods the woman pilfers, Gertrude is rarely bored. However, when Mrs. Sinclair catches Getrude in the act of returning items to the Sinclair yacht, a misunderstanding may cost her the friendship of the dashing and successful Harrison Sinclair, a friend of hers and a man who is becoming quite dear to Gertrude despite his lack of fashion sense. As one misunderstanding leads to another adventure, Gertrude must attempt to solve the mystery of other stolen goods before her friendship and her livelihood are destroyed.

I love Jen Turano’s novels because they are always full of hilarious escapades and laugh out loud adventures with eccentric, extraordinary characters. This book is no exception! I loved Gertrude from page one, with her dear generous heart and kind thoughtful spirit. She may be cast as a wallflower in society, but her fortitude and tenacity demonstrate a stronger soul beneath her exterior. I also loved Harrison and his ability to see the deeper Gertrude as well as his laughable sense of fashion and close relationship with his family. Indeed I quite enjoyed all of the characters although I do have to admit that I found Mrs. Davenport less than desirable, even though her antics were explained well with her history. Nevertheless, there is great history and wonderful spiritual growth. I do most heartedly recommend this novel to all lovers of books everywhere—I guarantee you will not be disappointed!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

Miss Permilia Griswold grew up travelling with her father on his business trips, so when her stepmother wishes her to simply attend balls and snag a worthy suitor, Permilia’s odd upbringing forces hers to be banished to the wallflower section of the ballroom. Nevertheless, Permilia uses her anonymity in society to write gossip columns under the pseudonym “Miss Quill,” filled with tidbits she hears from mingling on the fringes of parties. During one of her evenings, Permilia is shocked to hear a threat against none other than the irritatingly handsome Mr. Asher Rutherford. When she attempts to warn Asher, however, he does not believe her, and she must set out to prove her suspicions correct before it is too late.

One of my favorite aspects of Jen Turano’s writing is her ability to craft such hilarious escapades with tenacious, independent, interesting characters, and this novel delivers yet again! I particularly liked Permilia as she is practical and down to earth, content with her wallflower position in society but also determined to make the best of her situation. The witty banter between characters provides the perfect contrast to the bits of mystery and suspense sprinkled in the story. Add humorous romantic tension and more serious spiritual developments and you have another fantastic book by this well-loved author. I highly recommend this novel and cannot wait for book two in the series!

I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.